Very little can trump the beauty and tranquility provided by a pond. Not only is a pond pleasing to the eye, it also can also serve to increase your property value. Unfortunately, the cost of having a custom pond installed outweighs the benefits for many homeowners. If you create your own water garden, however, you'll have a sense of pride and a wise investment.
Choose a location for your pond. The ideal pond location should be close enough to a power source to easily plug in your pond equipment while also providing partial shade. Your pond equipment can inhibit the growth of algae that gives the water a murky appearance and robs it of vital nutrients necessary for the survival of fish and plants.
Call the utility companies in your area to ensure that no water, sewage or gas lines are in the area of your planned pond.
Dig the pond using a shovel. Larger ponds may require you to rent a small excavator or backhoe. Make the pond fairly deep if you intend to keep fish.
Use the shovel to pack the dirt down tightly in the bottom and sides of the pond.
Install a pond liner. You may opt for either a plastic or rubber liner for your pond. Press the liner into the hole as evenly as possible. The liner should be flattened out properly to adhere to the pond hole and remain free of wrinkles.
Fill the pond with processed water from a water purifier or treated with chlorine tabs. Chlorine is deadly to aquatic life.
Install the pond filter and skimmer of your choice. You may choose either a submersible or exterior filter. Should you opt for an exterior filter, it should be located below the water level outside the pond to provide proper water flow to the system.
Provide the pond with beneficial bacteria. Purchase granulated beneficial bacteria at any pond supply store. Beneficial bacteria stabilizes pond nutrient levels, prevents algae growth and breaks down fish waste.
Introduce fish and plant life into the pond. If you opt for fish, allow the freshly constructed pond to sit for several days for the water temperature to stabilize.
Tips & Warnings
Add floating plants or a fountain to increase oxygen levels in your pond water. This is a must for larger ponds.
Limit the number of fish you stock. An overstocked pond will cause stress on your fish and require cleaning more often.
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